The licence will cover work at the Miller graphite project, a past-producing graphite asset located 80 km west of Montreal in the Grenville Township.

"After concerns were expressed by the local community, Canada Carbon made the decision to defer the quarry component of the project and focus its efforts on the development of the graphite mine," the statement read. "This decision reflects Canada Carbon's dedication to actively listen to and address the expressed concerns of residents."

To address some of the concerns about the project's impact on the forest in the area, Canada Carbon has adopted a "comprehensive zero net loss restoration plan specifically designed to restore and maintain the maple production potential."

This includes the planting of one maple tree for every tree that is cut down in the process.

"Additionally, maple-forest management practices will be implemented in the untouched areas of the forest starting from year one of the project," the company said. "This approach ensures that the maple syrup potential will be even better than if the forest had been left untouched."

The Miller project first entered production in 1845 and may be one of Canada's first graphite and mica operations. As a result of previous development, the project has a nearby access road and power lines within 500 metres.

"Canada Carbon is confident that the Miller project will meet the highest standards of compliance, assiduously protect the environment, and contribute positively to the economy of the entire region," the statement noted.